On May 1, 2008, as Safe Passage welcomed Massachusetts First Lady Diane Patrick to the Clarion Hotel in Northampton to help us launch our next 30 years of service to women and children who have experienced domestic violence. Stories of Strength: An Evening with Diane Patrick to Benefit Safe Passage celebrated our community’s incredible support of Safe Passage and the strength of domestic violence survivors. Thank you so much for your ticket purchase of $150, $100 of which is tax-deductible.

First Lady Diane Patrick delivered a moving speech that held the audience breathless for over 20 minutes. Our live auction featured auctioneer Kelsey Flynn, who led the audience in bidding on a variety of donated items, ranging from a garden package to a multi-course beer dinner to Red Sox tickets. Attendees enjoyed an inspiring performance by Evelyn Harris, who closed the evening by leading the audience in song.

This event raised $22,000 for Safe Passage. This money helps us to continue providing the information and support women need in order to make positive and empowered choices for themselves and their families. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to and attended this event.


Thanks to our generous sponsors:

Leader:
FamilyFun, Wondertime and Disney Worldwide Outreach

Activists:
Clarion Hotel & Conference Center
WRSI The River
WEIB: 106.3 Smooth FM

Advocates:
Baystate Health
Citizens Bank
Fazzi Associates
Gravity Switch

Table sponsors:
Western Massachusetts Legal Services
Integrity Development & Construction, Inc.
Lightlife Foods
Northampton Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
SEEdebate.org
Attorneys Kim Zadworny, Courtney Mallon, Kari Nykorchuk, Linda del Castillho, Beth D. Cohen, and Susan Moran
Gail & David Kielson

Supporter sponsors:
Andy's & the Oak Shoppe
Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Daily Hampshire Gazette
Finck & Perras
Holyoke Community College

Posted on Friday, March 21, 2008

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